Ivory-breasted Pitta

A small bird patterned in black, white, and gray. Adult males have white underparts and face contrasting with an obvious black neck-band which extends around from the back of the head. Females have a gray head with white below the bill and a smaller black patch on the breast. The female’s underparts are less brilliant—more of a ‘dirty white.’ This species is typically found in small groups in salt marsh habitats across southern Australia. May also occur in other areas with low, wet vegetation, such as open farmland.

Chunky, long-legged, intricately patterned bird. Pale blue tail tips are conspicuous in flight. Elusive and uncommon; unlikely to be seen by those not searching for it. Found at low and middle elevations in eastern rainforest. Feeds in the understory, avoiding disturbance by fleeing on the ground. Song is a long “bwooooop” note that is repeated slowly, delivered from a low perch.

Handsome and distinctive duck. Sexes look similar, but male averages brighter. Note the striking face pattern (duller on young and on adults in late summer), bright rusty sides, and bold white forewing patches that show in flight. Often common in wetlands, marshes, at lakes, and along river mouths. Associates readily with other waterfowl, but more often seen on shore, grazing in grassy areas.